Literal language refers to words that do not differ from their actual meaning. On the other hand, figurative language refers to words, and groups of words, that alter the usual meanings of the words and may exaggerate its true meaning. Both traditional systems of analyzing language are used throughout our lives however depicting on which system used can change the meaning of a passage entirely.
Literal language as defined above is simply how we write academically in class. There is no meaning behind the word other than what it states already. For example, "the ground is dry," is letting the reader know that the ground is dry without need of any extra insight. Literal language is described as straight-forward or word for word, it isnt much used in Literature when trying to form different insights or depictions of this language.
Figurative language on the other hand has a different meaning behind a word or passage. Figurative language can be used and read in many poems. This language can be viewed or read in many different ways and can differ in meaning depending on how the reader depicts the purpose. For example, "the ground is thirsty," can tell the reader that the ground is dry or hot. It also may show to another reader that the ground is in need of water or shade. As you can see, figurative language gives the reader more of an undertanding of the word or passage. It puts a greater emphasis on the meaning giving the language a voice to the reader in which is greatly important to allow the reader better comprehension of whats being said.
Literal language is necessary to understand things how they truly are, but figurative language, especially in literature can offer us so much more. When we studied the allusions and archetypes earlier this year, the impact of using those forms of figurative language was tremendous. A poet can evoke a feeling deep within you, make you think a certain way, and understand not only what he is saying but the true meaning behind it in just a few figurative words. For example, if it compares a person's trials to that of Job, we not only would know that it was hard for them, but devastating to the person and utterly unbearable to any but the most determined and strong of people, showing us the person's character as well as stating that they had trials.
ReplyDeleteChad L.